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IT’S COLD AND DARK OUTSIDE and it’s easy to slump into a gloomy mood so, this month, we turn to the light and explore how to invite more joy into our lives. We all know about the ‘downward mood spiral’ and how our brains are primed to scan the world for threat, but let’s play with the idea of creating an upward spiral, putting our focus purely on what brings us bliss. The good news is it’s not about the big stuff – it’s about the details; those simple moments that make us smile.
Anita Chaudhuri seeks out the ultimate five-step joy plan, exploring tangible little things that yield the maximum pleasure. Meet a reader who spreads joy via his magical garden, take our test to see what’s draining your joy and subscribe to Psychologies to join coach of the month Amanda Cookson, who is running the free, uplifting course ‘How to double the joy in your life in four weeks’. What’s not to love?